Union Church & Community Centre

Tucked away on Ferme Park Road, the Union Church & Community Centre whispers tales of unity and resilience. The Union Church & Community Centre started in 1799. It was founded by a unique blend of Anglicans and Nonconformists. This union, reflected in its very name, sought a new path, diverging from the rigid structures of the established church. Their motto, “Friend for All,” is etched into the heart of the Union Church & Community Centre. It continues to guide their mission today. The original congregation, a mere 26 souls, quickly blossomed under the charismatic leadership of Henry Allon. Allon served as minister from 1844 to 1892. His sermons drew crowds, including prominent figures like Gladstone and a young H. H. Asquith, the future prime minister. Islington’s population boomed during this era. The Union Church & Community Centre needed a larger space to accommodate its growing community. James Cubitt, a renowned Nonconformist architect, won the design competition. The current building, completed in 1877, stands as a testament to his vision. Cubitt’s innovative octagonal design, topped by a magnificent dome, maximizes visibility and acoustics. This ensures every member of the congregation could see and hear the preacher. The pulpit, richly adorned, takes center stage in the Union Church & Community Centre. The pews, carefully arranged on a slope, provide unobstructed views. Even small details like numbered metal plates for pew rent and umbrella stands speak to the church’s history. The organ, hidden from view, fills the chapel with its rich tones. The rose window above, depicting angels playing instruments, hints at the music’s importance. The Union Church & Community Centre faced challenges in the 20th century. The congregation dwindled and wartime bombings damaged the north side windows. Despite these setbacks, the spirit of the Union Church & Community Centre persevered. It found new life as a concert venue and community center. The Margins Project, started in 1995, offers vital support to the homeless. The Union Church & Community Centre stands as a beacon of community and social justice. It embodies the enduring spirit of its founders, a “Friend for All.”